Global Director of Research and Operations: What does Emily Lando do?

I have been the Global Director of Research and Operations at DVJ since February 2022, so just over a year at this point. I am originally from the United States and started my career after graduating in film and television production at Boston University. After initially gaining more experience in that field, I transitioned to a new career and found my passion while working for non-profit organizations where I managed teams. Through this experience, I worked with a wide range of researchers from all sorts of professions such as oceanographers, economists, and epidemiologists, among other specializations. After developing my career for several years in the United States, I decided to take my journey elsewhere. My heart led me to the Netherlands, where I began working at tech companies managing research operations for user experience research.

Initial touch points

I first got introduced to DVJ through a LinkedIn post from the CEO, Lucas Hulsebos, about a new position opening for a Research Director. After reading the job description, I realised that in terms of career potential, DVJ was exactly the place I wanted to be, I have a passion for working with people and fostering their professional and personal development, and this chance provided me with both. It seemed a natural progression for me to join DVJ. Additionally, I am very fond of the welcoming environment and the encouraging nature that DVJ promotes at the office.

My role within a team

I love the team that I am leading. Working with a diverse group and using my skills to set the team strategy, make my work rewarding and engaging. I am responsible for ensuring that my team successfully completes their projects and consistently meets their KPIs. I make sure the team is properly organized and that everyone is managed uniformly and given the same resources. Writing the year plan for 2023 was one of my most recent duties. Although it was difficult, it was enjoyable to develop a plan for the team and work toward achieving these objectives in the following year.

In general, I could say that the work environment at DVJ is quite relaxed. I  believe in my team and all the diverse strengths and skills that they bring to work every day. I love that the team delivers high-quality work every day while showing their passion for research and most importantly, enjoying the process.

I strive to build a culture and excitement around research and working at DVJ.

DVJ Way of Working

I like to think of myself as an ambassador for the DVJ Way of Working, as I firmly believe that we have developed the most efficient way of working for producing high-quality data. I thoroughly enjoy intellectual challenges and getting to support others in helping them excel in developing their own areas of expertise. I love discovering others’ talents and being able to connect them with workplace passions that share those skills.

At DVJ we resonate with our clients and are passionate about their ambitions and objectives.

The research team operates with defined processes. In other words, we have weekly team starts and one-on-one meetings within each sub-team for team leads to support each Research Experts three primary responsibilities for the week and, if necessary, seek help. Additionally, we work with clear KPIs and take appropriate action when we fall short of expectations.

DVJ’s Company Culture

The world has seen a dramatic change in the previous few years. Post-pandemic there has been a huge dynamic shift in terms of company culture and a new working environment. What’s so great about DVJ is that we embrace those changes, especially because we want to collaborate with all kinds of people locally and globally. The research department is highly diverse and international, and it pleases me to watch how everyone engages in conversation with one another regardless of age, gender, or nationality.

Seek out your potential

If you are a person who is passionate about learning and market research, I highly suggest you look at DVJ as a company that will help you grow. Within DVJ there is always room for growth, whether you wish to be a consultant, team lead, or a member of the Center of Expertise. We will support you as you advance in your career. As a company that selects the best and brightest, we show our passion every day and want to see the same from our next Research Experts.